Sage Vishrava occupies an important place in the Ramayana tradition as the father of Ravana, the powerful ruler of Lanka, and Kubera, the deity associated with wealth. His family connects the world of sages with…
Kaikesi, also known as Kaikasi or Kaikasī, occupies a fascinating place in Hindu mythology as the mother of Ravana, the powerful king of Lanka in the Ramayana. Although Ravana is one of the most widely…
Ravan is one of the most fascinating and complex figures in the Ramayan tradition. The powerful king of Lanka is remembered for abducting Mata Sita and fighting Shri Ram, but his story extends far beyond…
In Hindu tradition, certain weapons are remembered not merely for their extraordinary power but also for their divine origins and the stories associated with them. Chandrahas, the legendary sword associated with Ravana, the powerful king…
India’s cultural heritage is shaped by centuries of music, dance, theatre, folk traditions and storytelling. From the classical ragas of Hindustani music to the graceful movements of Bharatanatyam, from traditional puppetry to regional theatre, these…
The Pakistan–Afghanistan conflict has exposed a major contradiction in South Asian geopolitics. Pakistan initially welcomed the Taliban’s return to power in Afghanistan in August 2021, expecting a government in Kabul that would be friendly to…
Indian film music has long been associated with legendary composers, memorable melodies and powerful playback singers. In recent years, Parampara Thakur has emerged as a notable name among the women contributing to the changing landscape…
Hindi film music has traditionally been dominated by large orchestras, established playback singers and composers working within familiar musical conventions. Sneha Khanwalkar, however, developed a distinctive approach that brought folk traditions, everyday sounds and experimental…
Hindi cinema has produced many legendary music directors, but few women have managed to build a long and successful career in this highly competitive profession. Usha Khanna is one of the most remarkable exceptions. From…
Long before Bollywood music became synonymous with legendary composers such as Naushad, Shankar-Jaikishan and S. D. Burman, a remarkable woman was quietly transforming the sound of Hindi cinema. Her name was Saraswati Devi, one of…